Data Scientist - Forest Futures Lab

Westernfireforest; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative organization seeks a data scientist to join a collaborative effort focused on fire ecology and forest resilience. This role involves harmonizing geospatial data, conducting advanced analyses, and creating accessible visualizations to support decision-making. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a dynamic research environment while addressing critical ecological challenges. With a competitive salary and benefits, this role is perfect for those passionate about applying their expertise to real-world problems in an interdisciplinary setting. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to making a significant impact on forest ecosystems and fire management strategies.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required in relevant fields such as forest ecology or ecosystem modeling.
• Expertise in geospatial and remote sensing analysis is essential.

Responsibilities

• Analyze geospatial data to inform decision-making in fire ecology.
• Develop engaging data visualizations for non-academic audiences.

Skills

Quantitative Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Team Collaboration

Data Synthesis

Education

Ph.D. in Forest Ecology or related field

Tools

R

Python

JavaScript

C++

Google Earth Engine

Job description

Position Summary

Cary Institute seeks a creative, innovative data scientist to join the Western Fire and Forest Resilience Collaborative. The Collaborative is engaging 10 science teams and a diverse array of decision makers to co-create and implement a research program that will ensure the predictive science of fire ecology and forest resilience can support effective strategies to the fire crisis. The Collaborative is led by the Forest Futures Lab at Cary Institute of Ecosystem studies, where the data scientist would be based. We expect the Collaborative to run for the next 5 to 10 years.

Location: Preferred location is Millbrook, NY, but hybrid/remote work will be considered for exceptional candidates.

Position Details: This is a full-time, fully benefitted exempt position with a one-year initial appointment, renewable for an additional year contingent on performance and funding. Annual salary ranges from $70,000 - $85,000, based on previous experience, with a highly competitive benefits and time-off package.

Responsibilities:

1. Work collaboratively within the Fire Collaborative to harmonize and analyze geospatial and remote sensing data to address actionable questions relevant to decision makers.
2. Conduct analyses of existing products in Google Earth Engine and with machine learning techniques.
3. Develop interactive, engaging, and accessible data summaries and visualizations of scientific data for non-academic audiences.
4. Contribute to other scientists’ analysis and workflows.
5. Contribute to a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at the Cary Institute.

Required Qualifications:

1. Ph.D. in forest ecology, disturbance ecology, ecosystem modeling, AI, or a related field prior to appointment.
2. Demonstrated expertise in ecosystem, landscape, geospatial, and remote sensing analysis.
3. Demonstrated expertise in remote sensing and geospatial analysis using R, Python, JavaScript, and/or C++.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience working in interdisciplinary research settings.
2. Familiarity with climate change impacts on forest ecosystems.
3. Experience with developing data visualizations, data summaries, and interactive online data dashboards for general audiences.

Required Skills:

1. Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
2. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
3. Strong written and oral communication skills.
4. Ability to synthesize and analyze large ecological datasets.
5. Effective communication and collaboration skills for engaging with stakeholders and research teams.

Working Conditions:

Travel opportunities related to the project will be provided.

Finalist candidates must successfully complete a post-offer, pre-employment background check.

To Apply:

Please apply on the Careers page of Cary Institute of Ecosystems Studies website.